I forgot to say...

I will also start doing the CWC method. I have always shampooed all my hair including lengths twice every time I wash it (normally twice a week) and didn't even think about the fact that shampoo is quite strong!

And in regards to shedding, it has always seemed to shed a fair amount, but perhaps because it is black I think it is worse than it is. But I partly think it is just due to how I treat it. For example the last time I used a straightener, a few hairs were shed afterwards on my table. I think that says it all really. My diet isn't always fantastic (although I expect nobody can claim to have a perfect diet) but I think the abuse probably plays a big part.

Thanks again I will make a signature soon with all my info and figure out my hair type too!